THE GIFT OF GRATITUDE

Reflecting back a year ago this month, things were not looking too good around here. Husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and the proverbial rug was pulled out from under us. We persevered and not always because we thought we should, (there was that denial thing) but, due in large part to our children who pushed us to never take "no" for an answer.

What a difference a year makes. Husband has improved beyond imagination. He pushes himself to box with his trainer twice a week. He walks and bikes along with daily exercises instructed by his physical therapist, even when it might just be easier to nap on the couch. He goes to work and travels. He holds his grandchildren at night and shows them the moon!

We've learned you have to be your own best advocate. Our children taught us the valuable lesson that there's no sitting quietly and politely to see a specialist. In the face of a crisis knock on as many doors as you have to. Read as much information as possible. Educate yourself and ask a million questions, without apology, because Google is not always right.

Life is sweeter and the gratitude we have for each other and for every moment of every day is priceless, even though we do get pissed off by the everyday normal, like when someone steals your parking space.